35 Uses For Paracord

Parachute cord (also called paracord or 550 cord) is a lightweight, nylon rope originally used in the suspension lines of US parachutes during World War II. Once in the field, paratroopers found this cord useful for many other tasks. It is now used as a general purpose utility cord by both military personnel and civilians. This versatile cord was even used by astronauts during STS-82, the second Space Shuttle mission to repair the Hubble Space Telescope.

The braided sheath has a high number of interwoven strands for its size, giving it a relatively smooth texture. The all-nylon construction makes paracord fairly elastic; depending on the application this can be either an asset or a liability.

Depending on the type of paracord being used, there are 6 types; the breaking strength ranges between 95 pounds and 750 pounds. That is some strong stuff!

1. Tying knots2. Building a shelter 3. Crafts4. Securing a tent 5. Securing a tarp between trees 6. Hanging a tool from your belt 7. Secure an item to the outside of your pack 8. Tourniquet in a first aid situation 9. Secure a splint 10. Emergency belt 11. Emergency shoe laces12. Use the inner core as sewing thread 13. Hang a tool around your neck 14. Hang something from a tree 15. Use to make traps and snares 16. Replacing draw strings in packs and bags

17. Securing a flag18. Keep rolled up items, like a bed roll, secured19. Tie a Turk's head to create a neckerchief slide20. Tie objects such as poles together for easier transport21. Braid / twist into a rope22. Bundle cables or rope together23. Hang up a clothes line24. Hang a bear bag from a tree25. Use the inner strands as dental floss26. Pet leash27. Pet collar28. Build a bow drill29. Use inner strands as fishing line30. Adding a loop to a tool31. Weave into a hammock32. Tie two cots together to make a couch33. Secure gear to a vechicle

Sorry, can't resist throwing these two in:

34. Tying up unruly tent mates35. Use a handful of cord as toliet paper (Maybe this will go over better then duct tape toilet paper?)

How do you use paracord? Drop us a note to share your tips!

The next time you need to stock up on paracord, why not give our friends at CampingSurvival.com a look? Enter code "insanescouter" (no quotes) at checkout to receive a 5% discount on your order.